Introductions - Duck to Water

Hello from Austin, Texas. My friend mentioned doing a century ride that gave me a moment of insanity thinking "that sounds like fun" and suddenly I find I really love cycling. Got myself a trainer, started riding regularly and in less than six weeks successfully did a 50 mile ride. Everything isn't roses yet though -- learning I know nothing about cycling, need a lot of work on my hills and speed but it's all a process. Unfortunately I won't be doing the century ride this year (decided I'd rather have a head on collision with a vehicle a week ago). No major injuries to myself and am anxious to get back on the bike soon. I have found that I've literally taken to cycling like a duck to water.

Welcome to Bike Forums!

Sorry to hear about your collision - I'm glad you're okay.

What kind of bike do you have?

Nice to have you ladyraestewart.

Howdy and welcome to the forums.

I had a little accident myself a while back, but got back on the bike pretty quick. One thing I discovered was that stuff that was sore was either helped or at least not hurt by riding again.

Don't give up on your century too easily. A lot of people seem to have the idea that you have to ride all out to go anywhere, but you can back off on your speed and extend your range considerably. Go try a metric century at your own pace, see how you feel, and if you finish feeling like you could do more, figure you're good for a 100 miles, too. Watch the heat, get lots of electrolytes.

Welcome to BF!!

Thanks all --- just got myself a Trek Lexi which I'm loving. I was able to get back on the bike within four days of the collision and have continued riding. Took a while longer to return to the road though --- was reluctant to ride on the hybrid and purchasing and taking home a new bike do not always occur on the same day. Due to reasons beyond my control the century has been postponed for May 7 but I'm looking at one in mid September with an 80 mile ride planned for May 21.